Conflicts in Couple Relationships: a global perspective

Relationships, for many, represent a vital and central element in their lives. However, they can also be a source of challenges and conflicts.. In this article, we will try to unravel various aspects related to conflicts in couple relationships, their prevalence, and the neurophysiological, cognitive-behavioral and humanistic-existential bases that can give rise to these conflicts. Likewise, we will analyze how these factors are interrelated in the daily life of the affected couples. Our approach will also cover the treatment and monitoring of such conflicts, in order to present a comprehensive and understandable approach to the general public.

A crucial point to highlight is that an effective diagnosis of the underlying causes of conflicts in a relationship is vital for the design of appropriate management and prevention strategies. Therefore, evaluating the dynamics of the relationship, the history of the couple and the difficulties present can provide invaluable information to address these problems in an effective way.

Regarding the incidence of couple conflicts, several studies estimate that about 60% of couples experience some kind of conflict at some stage of their relationship (Gottman & Levenson, 2000). Although the existence of conflicts is a common circumstance in any relationship, it is essential handle them properly to prevent them from becoming a persistent source of discomfort and wear emotional.

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The brain, love and conflict

From a neurophysiological perspective, recent studies have shown that certain brain regions and neurotransmitter systems are involved. in the regulation of emotions and empathy, essential processes in the resolution of conflicts in couple relationships (Fisher, Aron & Brown, 2006). Particularly, The prefrontal cortex and the limbic system, which includes the amygdala and hippocampus, play a fundamental role in emotional regulation and response to conflict situations. (Davidson, 2002). In addition, the dopaminergic and oxytocinergic systems are linked to the formation and maintenance of emotional bonds in couples (Feldman, 2012).

In the cognitive-behavioral framework, conflicts in couple relationships can originate from dysfunctional thought and behavior patterns or inappropriate, such as poor communication, lack of conflict resolution skills, and a propensity to blame the other for problems in the relationship (Cordova, 2001). Cognitive-behavioral couples therapy (CBCT) is a therapeutic method supported by scientific evidence that seeks to address these patterns and teach couples communication and conflict resolution skills (Epstein & Baucom, 2002).

In relation to the humanist-existential bases, conflicts in couple relationships may be connected with the self-perception of each individual and their perception of the couple, as well as with their expectations and needs emotional. Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT) is a humanistic-existential approach that seeks to help couples identify and express their emotions, explore their needs and desires, and strengthen the emotional bond between partners (Johnson, 2004).

The interaction between the neurophysiological, cognitive-behavioral and humanistic-existential bases can have a considerable impact on the daily life of couples in conflict. For example, difficulties in emotion regulation can aggravate communication problems and problem solving. conflicts, which in turn can affect self-perception and perception of others, as well as satisfaction in relationship. Understanding how these elements interact is crucial to comprehensively address conflicts in relationships.

couples therapies

The treatment of conflicts in couple relationships generally includes a combined approach that integrates elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy., emotion-focused therapy, and, in some cases, pharmacological interventions to treat possible underlying neurochemical imbalances (Markman, Stanley & Blumberg, 2010; Johnson, 2004). Support from self-help groups and education about couple dynamics can also be beneficial in improving understanding and managing conflicts in daily life.

Regular follow-up with mental health professionals is essential to monitor progress and adjust treatment as necessary. Collaboration between the couple, their family and the treatment team is crucial to ensure that needs are met and achieve a lasting improvement in quality of life and relationship satisfaction (Baucom, Shoham, Mueser, Daiuto & Stickle, 1998).

In conclusion, an adequate diagnosis and treatment of conflicts in couple relationships are essential to improve the quality of life and satisfaction in the relationship. The interrelation between the neurophysiological, cognitive-behavioral and humanistic-existential bases underlines the importance of addressing couple conflicts in a comprehensive manner. Collaboration between the couple, their family and mental health professionals is key to achieve successful results in the treatment and follow-up of conflicts in business relationships couple.